Japan’s animation industry achieved a remarkable milestone in 2024, with revenues surging by 14.8 percent to reach an unprecedented total of $25 billion (3.8 trillion yen). This significant growth is largely attributed to the rising international popularity of anime, as reported by the Association of Japanese Animations (AJA) during the TIFFCOM content market held alongside the Tokyo International Film Festival.
The AJA’s upcoming annual Anime Industry Report 2025 highlights that international sales now dominate the anime market, accounting for 56 percent of total revenues. Overseas earnings reached $14.25 billion (2.17 trillion yen) in 2024, while domestic revenues contributed $10.97 billion (1.67 trillion yen), representing 44 percent of the total. This trend marks a pivotal shift, with overseas revenue reflecting a 26 percent year-on-year increase, showcasing the global demand for Japanese animated content. In contrast, local sales experienced modest growth of just 2.8 percent.
International Demand Drives Growth
According to Masahiko Hasegawa, the lead author of the AJA report, “The overseas market now far exceeds local revenues, and this gap will only widen.” He noted that growth is driven by diverse revenue streams, including bundled contracts that encompass theatrical rights, streaming, merchandising, and events, rather than merely content distribution.
The impressive figures for 2024 do not yet account for the phenomenal success of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, which premiered on September 12 and has quickly become the highest-grossing Japanese film of all time, grossing a staggering $670 million globally. Additionally, the quirky anime film Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc has continued the trend of substantial earnings, amassing $139 million worldwide since its release on October 24. Both films were distributed by Sony’s anime division, Crunchyroll, in collaboration with Sony Pictures.
The AJA has diligently tracked the anime industry for 22 years, revealing a consistent growth pattern since 2009, even during the challenges posed by the pandemic. The report underscores that international revenue for Japan’s anime sector surpassed domestic sales for the first time in 2020, highlighting the global appeal of this art form.
Studio Revenue Breaks Records
The report also provides insights into the financial performance of anime studios, which are the backbone of the industry. In 2024, the production sector recorded a remarkable 9.1 percent year-on-year growth, achieving total sales of $3.06 billion (466.2 billion yen). Notably, overseas studio revenue reached $781 million (118.8 billion yen), underscoring that a significant portion of anime’s global success is still driven by creative production based in Japan.
As the industry continues to thrive, the AJA’s findings demonstrate the crucial role that both domestic and international markets play in shaping the future of anime. With its unique storytelling and visual artistry, Japan’s animation industry is set to maintain its upward trajectory, captivating audiences around the world.
